Eid al-Fitr 2025: A celebration of faith, family, and tradition

Muslims worldwide celebrate Eid al-Fitr today, marking the end of Ramadan with prayers, feasts, and charity. The two-day festival unites communities through traditions unique to each country.

Eid al-Fitr, the festival marking the end of Ramadan, begins today, 30 March 2025, in several countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar. The celebration lasts for two days and is based on the sighting of the crescent moon, which signals the start of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic calendar.

The holiday begins with a special prayer, known as Salat al-Eid, performed in mosques or open prayer grounds. Before attending the prayer, it is customary to give Zakat al-Fitr, a form of charity aimed at supporting those in need so they can also take part in the celebrations.

Across the world, various customs accompany the holiday. In Indonesia and Malaysia, it is common for people to travel to their hometowns, a tradition known as mudik, to celebrate with family. In Türkiye, special desserts such as baklava and şekerpare are prepared and enjoyed, earning the holiday the name "Şeker Bayramı" (Sugar Feast). In Egypt and parts of the Middle East, the first day of Eid often includes gatherings in parks, where families share food and children receive Eidiya—money gifts from elders. In the United States and Europe, Muslim communities organise large prayer gatherings, charity events, and cultural festivities to mark the occasion.

Apart from feasting and social visits, Eid al-Fitr is also a time for acts of kindness, forgiveness, and strengthening relationships. Many people take the opportunity to resolve past conflicts, extend greetings to neighbours and colleagues, and increase their charitable giving. It is also common to visit the graves of loved ones, offering prayers for the deceased.

Since the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, the exact date of Eid varies across countries. While some nations are celebrating today, others are set to begin their festivities tomorrow.

Beyond its joyful traditions, Eid al-Fitr carries a profound spiritual significance. It marks the completion of a month of fasting, self-discipline, and devotion, reminding Muslims of the values of gratitude, compassion, and unity.

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